
YOUR GUIDE TO THE TWIN CITIES

Big numbers in the final two days helped the 2011 Minnesota State Fair become the third-best-attended State Fair. Updated Sep. 6, 2011
What's it like on the state fairgrounds at this moment? Check out our FairCam to get a live taste of the weather, crowds and buzz.
Who has the worst job at the fair? I DO! you say, citing the finite capacity of the human stomach. That doesn't count. You're a volunteer. Let's talk about actual professions.
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The Giant Sing-along at the State Fair is for everyone who ever wanted to do karaoke but couldn't do it alone.
Updated Aug. 31, 2011
Though many State Fair attractions come and go more than 40 tree sculptures remain all-year around on the fairgrounds.
Updated Sep. 29, 2011
A few days before the gates open, the Fairgrounds are curiously underpopulated. Will they get everything up in time? (Spoiler: of course.) Bonus Fair tease: learn about Minneseota's Newest Nightmare! (It's not another recount.)
Updated Sep. 29, 2011
Many people were eager to continue the tradition of attending opening day at the Minnesota State Fair.
Updated Oct. 3, 2011
Where do cheese curds come from? It begins on farms and involves traditional cheesemaking practices with modern technology, ending in a stroke of logistical genius in the State Fair's Food Building.
This year's lineup includes classic and modern rock, veteran country stars, a Latin superstar -- and a made-for-TV boy band.
If you adore our home-grown get-together as much as this couple do, you can even get married there (in pickle hats).
Kids (5-12) admitted for $7. All-day discounts on Mighty Midway and Kidway rides, games and concessions. Many merchandise and food vendors offer Last Chance bargains all day. Barns close for the day at 3 p.m.
Weather damage is less than first feared for most growers, but there are "pockets of disaster," particularly in the south.
Updated 11:19 PM
After a public uproar, oversight of compensation for the university's 43 top executives will be strengthened.
Updated 9:41 PM
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